CONFIRMATION has been received that Newquay BID’s impending Zombie Crawl parade, due to take place this Saturday, October 24, is to be cancelled due to forecast high winds, gusting conditions and heavy rainfall.

This marks the first time in its history the event has had to be cancelled.

However, there is light at the end of this stormy tunnel as the town’s free, family-friendly workshops, indoor performances and Halloween activities on Saturday, October 24, will still go ahead.

Mark Warren, manager of Newquay BID, said: “In my five years as BID manager, this is the first time we’ve had to cancel the Zombie Crawl parade, and it’s a huge decision to make. The event has grown enormously and is loved by local people, families from across Cornwall and visitors from further afield. But we simply cannot put anyone at risk.

“Public safety has to come first, and with the forecast showing high winds and heavy rain, cancelling the outdoor parade is the right decision. Nobody can predict how quickly the weather can change. Last week the conditions were absolutely perfect; this week, they’re the complete opposite. We’re already looking ahead to bringing the parade back bigger and better next year.”

What local indoor event will you attend now the Zombie Crawl parade has been cancelled? (Newquay BID)

He was quick to add that Halloween is not cancelled in Newquay, with a plethora of alternative events still being staged, indoors, across the weekend.

The Zombie Crawl is just one part of Spooky Newquay, a wider programme of Halloween-themed activities, events, experiences and business offers taking place throughout the town during the half-term holidays.

He continued: “Please don’t think Halloween is cancelled in Newquay! The parade is cancelled, but the rest of our spooky Saturday is still going ahead. We have a whole host of free, family-friendly workshops and activities across the town, with indoor performances and plenty to keep everyone entertained.

“From face painting and pumpkin carving to banner making, storytelling and wound-making, there is still lots of spooky fun to be had. Many local businesses are also hosting children’s discos and parties during the afternoon, so families can keep the fun going after dressing up and enjoying the activities. We’re encouraging everyone to come into Newquay, enjoy the programme and support our local businesses.

“We’re incredibly grateful to all the performers, community groups, businesses, volunteers and partners who have worked so hard to make this programme happen. Spooky Newquay is about the whole town coming together, and there is still plenty to enjoy this weekend!”

Outdoor performances are also being moved indoors where possible, with the following arrangements planned:

• 2pm – Titan the Robot at Newquay Cinema, with a half-hour performance;

• 12pm – Newquay Samba Band and 4Motion Dance group at Whiskers Gover Lane;

• 12pm- Bounce Dance Academy and Cornwall Theatre Group at the Unity Bar Gover Lane;

• 11.30am – Circus Skills Workshop at C Space on the Crescent .

Families should check the official website for the latest details on locations, timings and any activity-specific arrangements.

For the latest information about Saturday’s free workshops, indoor performances, children’s discos and parties, participating businesses, event timings and locations, visit: zombiecrawl.co.uk